Overarching Membrane Garment

ABSTRACT

Personal-size instantly-facile light-weight apparatus, configured without umbrella-typical eye-and-face injuring protrusions, the apparatus includes quasi-equatorial membrane structure capable of resting on a person&#39;s shoulders, when an attached-thereto arching tensile-supported membrane structure is over the person&#39;s head and torso. For use, apparatus unfolds from metastable-flat storage configuration to extended tensile-arched configuration, and user passes his/her head through quasi-equatorial membrane&#39;s opening; thereby covering user by overarching membrane structure. Material for overarching membrane may be for rain-shelter, sun-shade, UV-filter, and/or according to heat reflection, absorption, and insulation characteristics. For improved pedestrian safety, apparatus trim is preferably retro-reflective, or fluorescent colored; thus providing proximate motor-vehicle drivers with contrast enhanced visibility of apparatus-wearing children, pedestrians, road workers, traffic officers, and bicycle riders. Other apparatus sizes and uses are also disclosed.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/349,139 (having EFS ID 26039633 and Confirmation Number 3939), filed Jun. 13, 2016, titled “uSAn Aperella-Kali”, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. This application also claims priority to Israel Regular Utility Patent Application No. 240685, filed Aug. 19, 2015, titled “Uh uSAn Aperella”, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention generally relate to embodiments of an apparatus having functional aspects which are often associated with personal size Umbrellas, Wide Brim Hats, and Parasols; and which are sometimes associated with membrane supported space-frame and tensegrity structures of various sizes. More specifically, most embodiments of the present invention relate to a mechanically simple shielding device; that is preferably amenable to facile bidirectional transitions between a flat-storage metastable-closed configuration and an arched metastable-open configuration.

LEGAL NOTICE

FOR ALL instances appearing herein: “Aperella” is intended for use as a commercial trademark name, which is to be associated with some embodiments of the present invention.

PRIOR ART—CITATIONS

The following US patents have functional tensile elements, constructions, and/or details therein, which are thought to be relevant to appreciate embodiments of the instant invention apparatus:

Issued 1872—Improvement in Hat-Shades U.S. Pat. No. 128,780—describes an external “circular” tensile hoop (apparently of spring-like steel) with a fabric-type material stretched thereon and attached thereto—and having an intended use as a hat-brim radial-extension surface;

Issued 1887—Mosquito Netting Attachment U.S. Pat. No. 368,206—describes a dual tensile hoop structure “of metallic or other material” for supporting a enclosing mosquito netting (membrane);

Issued 1935 (Priority 1934)—Combined Hat and Shopping Bag U.S. Pat. No. 2,007,235—“a sheet of flexible material such as fabric and the same may, if desired, be reinforced and maintained in shape by a rim member”;

Issued 1942 (Priority 1940)—Bath Mat U.S. Pat. No. 2,268,747—illustrates a twist folding wire loop having a material nominally stretched and attached to the loop—wherein said material has an area substantially covering the space of the loop, and wherein the material is stitched to-or around the loop—furthermore, notably (by FIGS. 1, 4, and 5, therein), the material shape is ellipse or oblong—even though (apparently) the loop is (or would be) capable of opening to circular;

Issued 1960 (Priority 1957)—Stressed Structural Unit U.S. Pat. No. 2,961,802—(by FIG. 1 and claim 1, therein) describe and illustrate a tensile hoop with attached membrane, but do not suggest addition of another membrane or member for allowing use as personal pseudo-umbrella-parasol or the like;

Issued 1970 (Priority 1967)—Folding Hat and Integral Hat Crown-Shaping and Hat-Storing Device U.S. Pat. No. 3,496,574—“a limp, shapeless crown and a resilient, permanently attached rim which is yieldably foldable upon itself”;

Issued 1972 (Priority 1970)—Self-Erecting Tent U.S. Pat. No. 3,675,667—wherein a single tensile hoop with two respectively attached membranes opens into a tent with roof, side-walls, ground membrane, and door—and closes into a flat disk volume—however there is no suggestion of modification for allowing mobile use as personal pseudo-umbrella-parasol or the like;

Issued 1982 (Priority 1979)—Umbrellas U.S. Pat. No. 4,312,371—describes a twist folding ring having (a) a flexible material attached to the periphery and (b) a handle substantially oriented in the plane of the untwisted unfolded ring and being attached at one end to the ring and at the other end capable of pushing a substantially central portion of the material outward so that the material of the rings forms a tent-like pseudo-conical shape;

Issued 1989 (Priority 1988)—Self Erecting Structure U.S. Pat. No. 4,858,634—this patent, and many of the about 168 subsequent US patents that reference back to it, seems to describe pop-open mutually-affixed dual over-curvature ring based (ground covering) tent size constructions—most of which are especially concerned with providing complete space enclosures; such as including integral side walls, hermetically sealable doors, closeable air vents, total protection mosquito-netting, and the like. Simply stated, the most relevant of this “family” of patents firstly ignores independent usages of a single ring supporting membrane to provide simple roof canopy cover—and then most of this family requires a second typically ring supporting membrane to provide simple ground cover by ground contact (under the first ring's “roof” coverage) while providing mutual dual-ring tension stabilization—by strap connections therebetween (to enable the arching roof canopy over the ground cover);

Issued 1992 (Priority 1990)—Collapsible Tent Structure U.S. Pat. No. 5,137,044—wherein FIGS. 12-16 therein show a “plurality of flexible hoop supported membranes” twist-folding to less than half the extended-loop circumference and a “floor panel affixed” thereto;

Issued 1997 (Priority 1994)—Hat/Collar U.S. Pat. No. 5,621,921—wherein “an elongated tubular sleeve having sufficient body and firmness to retain folds” is substantially functionally equivalent to a twist-folding loop for some types of applications;

Issued 1999 (Priority 1998)—Hat with Twist Folding Brim and Drape U.S. Pat. No. 5,950,241—wherein FIGS. 5A-5C therein show a twist-folding loop with attached membrane;

Issued 2010 (Priority 2005)—Pop-Up Disposable Bag U.S. Pat. No. 7,815,372—wherein FIGS. 11-13 therein show an easily twist-folding pair of loops—operable in the same twist-folding action;

Issued 2010 (Priority 2009)—Twist Foldable Sun Visor for Hard Hat US-D617539—wherein all Figures therein show a twist-folding loop with a central opening; and

Issued 2013 (Priority 2009)—Sunbrella-Sunscreen U.S. Pat. No. 8,550,099—wherein FIGS. 1-5 therein illustrate use of a twist folding tensile loop having a fabric-like material attached thereto; and held in use by an attached central shaft—and having both an intended umbrella use (rain protection) and a parasol use (sun shade).

DEFINITIONS AND PREFERRED PRONUNCIATIONS

Here are a few words (used herein) that relate to embodiments of the present invention, to aspects thereof, and to properties and/or attitudes understood therewith.

OMG (Oh-eM′Gee): Acronym for “Overarching Membrane Garment” and respective embodiments of the present invention; also substantially a synonym of “uSAn”—as used in the Priority Patent Applications (both Regular and Provisional) for many respective embodiments and/or aspects therein.

uSAn (u-SA′n): In Chinese language, “Yu” is a word for rain, while “SA′n” is a word for umbrella, so Yu-SA′n is a composite word used for a rain-umbrella device; furthermore, in an instantly evolving Trans-Global English dialect, a personal possessive conjunction of “U” (as a written phonetic contraction of “you” or “your” or “your own”—or alternately as a phonetic hint of “universal” or “utopian” or “ubiquitous”) with “SAn” (the Chinese simplified slang word for: an umbrella; from the Chinese traditional term is Qing-yuSAn); and [please NOTE] “uSAn” was used in priority patent applications as a generic name for the respective instant invention apparatus, which included preferred and exemplary embodiments—providing functional sheltering aspects akin to those of a “personal size” umbrella. Furthermore, please NOTE that the “personal size” uSAn embodiments (likewise the “personal size” present “Overarching Membrane Garment” invention embodiments) are however somewhat different from the umbrella, such as in an aspect whereby an ordinary hand-held umbrella can be shared to shelter two persons, or can typically allow one person to instantly provide shelter to an adjacent person—while a “personal umbrella/parasol substitute” (uSAn or OMG) is worn-in-use rather than carried (hand held), which then generally substantially precludes both (i) simultaneous sharing of shelter thereof (except for a uSAn or OMG wearing person who is carrying either an infant or a small child) and (ii) instant trans-personal provision of shelter therewith.

Aperella (A′p-e-rel′la): Portmanteau for “APparatus function Emulating an umbRELLA”.

Kali (Kal′i): Contraction of “Kal” (a Hebrew word) which is used to indicate that something is: easy, facile, light (weight), and/or simple—with “i” (a Hebrew suffix) which is used: (a) to indicate a personalization of possession—such as: my ownership, belonging to me, my/mine, specifically for me, etc.—or to indicate a diminutive form—such as: easier, more facile, lighter (weight), and/or simpler—or (b) as a suffix in Hebrew (also in phonetic English—albeit typically written as “y”; and in other languages—as appropriate)—to indicate a hypocoristic term of endearment—such as is often used by family/friends to simplify/shorten the formal name of a young person, and likewise relates to exemplary terms that a young person may invent to describe appreciated persons, objects, or activities (wherein such invented terms typically become incorporated into the respective family and caretaker-adults' dialog with the young “inventor”); furthermore, according to a happy symmetric coincidence, “Kali” is also a hypocoristic nickname of one of the co-inventors of the present invention.

Confloogle (Con-floo′gle): (1) Pseudo-onomatopoeia of a portmanteau for a—(typically) CONvolved-(or “CONtorted”)-coNFused (and generally-twisted-&-broken, and also totally-beyond-repair, and even obviously-hopelessly-misshapen) LOst-Only-tO-GarbaGe umbrELLa; (2) alternately, an apparatus, per se (with-or-without a substantially integrated or compatible analog system's interface or protocol), having a functional complexity that has been ultimately topologically flummoxed into something of a significantly greater, albeit dysfunctional, complexity; (3) also, often, a highly perturbed intractable mechanical conundrum exceeding all cost effective solutions, even if only for theoretical contemplation, modeling, or simulation; (4) albeit sometimes, a serendipitous one-time opportunity NP-complete configuration-puzzle challenge to keep a most precocious Junior-or-Miss busy developing an appropriate enthalpy orientation-dominant heuristic, albeit one not recursively invoking interim recycling; (5) likewise, relating to one of many antiquated therapeutic protocols for treating attention randomized individuals (having organic, environmental, emotional, spiritual, media, occupational, and/or chemically induced episodes), wherein this archaic protocol is often initiated with some variation of “Hey (pick one: Kid-Friend-Mate-Partner-Buddy-Pal-Love-Dearest-Fella-Dude-“Comrade”/insert-personal-name-here/-etc.).—Maybe you can straighten this awesome confloogle out for me?” and further motivated by a subtly implied promise of a state-of-the-art enhanced-placebo prize, or a meta-psychedelic pedagogical award, or maybe even some generic effervescent confectionery (a post-modern non-stick “carrot”—currently marketed by manufacturer as “traditional”, “classic”, “original”, or “old fashion”); (6) and/or simultaneously with the aforesaid definitions (those respectively beginning “also”, “albeit”, and “likewise”), some “substantially subsequent” id-altering ego enhancement, such as oligarchical praise, social media fame, virtual honor, opportunity for “career advancement” (“human-capital obsolescence”), token monetary reward, unlisted private equity, insider stock options, discounted debentures, esoteric derivatives, biological stimulus, or the like, which in combination, if appropriately administered, comprise an irreversible non-invasive neuro-surgical (or psycho-surgical) confloogle transplant.

BACKGROUND ART

Of course, since your childhood, you are familiar with an amazing portable device consisting of a circular canopy of cloth on a folding metal frame supported by a central rod; used as protection against rain or sometimes sun. Perhaps you did not realize that the umbrella is an ancient device, known for thousands of years in East Asia and for more than five hundred years in Europe. The genius of an umbrella apparatus is that it is easy to deploy, and protects a large volume (underneath) when in use; yet it collapses and stores into a tiny volume (by comparison) when not in use. The modern umbrella is particularly light-weight; while generally remaining structurally robust. For these reasons, the umbrella is almost universally recognizable; and (not surprisingly) has some old traditional names in almost every human language too.

Now, even given continuous modern inventive progress to cheaper materials, mechanisms, and tensile bearing shapes-and-profiles, today's ordinary umbrellas still exhibit high order mechanical complexity. Fabrication of a single umbrella still involves a large number of steps; affixing numerous oddly shaped parts, ribs, hinges, springs, and the like together with assorted specialized connectors. As such, there is still an ongoing need to reduce umbrella design complexity, which in turn should further reduce the fabrication, manufacturing, and assembly costs.

Another problematic aspect of modern personal umbrellas is an inconvenience of traveling with a peculiar-shaped not-in-use umbrella; and a tendency to forget one's umbrella in waiting rooms, public transportation, and at home (such as by being occasionally absolutely infallibly certain that it will not rain today; even though it will). For example, it is reported that at least 80,000 umbrellas find their way to the London Underground Lost-&-Found every year, and another at least 300,000 annually to the Tokyo Transit Lost-&-Found; so the true scale of an ongoing “global lost-umbrella pandemic” probably reaches absolutely astronomical numbers of incidents.

My personal annoyance is that yet another drat confloogle inevitably occurs with structural integrity failure at some most needed umbrella moment; and often, that is some sudden super-gust of wind during a rain. Parenthetically, by nature, kids don't wait for that kind of confloogle moment; their hand held umbrellas “just break” when used as improvised hockey sticks, imaginary bludgeons, and other emotionally asymmetric ritual-aggression props of their ongoing playful amusements. Of course, there are also various unfortunate eye and face injuries to all-too-proximate passersby, from umbrella canopy-rib protrusions of various properly used umbrellas; by both child and adult alike. Furthermore, sadly, children sometimes open their umbrellas too close to themselves, thereby infliction abrasions to their face and/or to their eyes; from the pointy ends of the umbrella's ribs. Incomplete domestic medical accident statistics suggest that children incur about twice as many self-inflicted eye injuries from umbrellas as adults do.

Fundamentally, for almost everyone else (who still has a functioning personal umbrella, with them, when they need one), a central physical problem of umbrellas is that they need to be awkwardly held while in use; and then, even if both hands are not otherwise needed, it is cumbersome, uncomfortable, and tiresome to hold the open umbrella's rod substantially vertical for lengthy periods. In addition, for the laws-of-physics intuiting user, walking under a protective umbrella brings bizarre topological riddles; of how best to circumvent some instantly narrowing passages, and other configurations having straits of tall vertical polls and/or elevated horizontal protrusions, while simultaneously directing the umbrella against wind; and preferably likewise maintaining protective coverage from rain. Furthermore, for those seeking spiritual humanistic tranquility, personal navigation on the densely populated urban walkway, while holding an upright extended-canopy umbrella, is randomly a chaotic anonymous (antisocial-protocol jousting-like) adventure; often resulting in feelings of mutual dissatisfaction, although sometimes resulting in a magnanimous soaking.

Well, among other technical problems, the modern hand-held umbrella remains obviously complex to make, awkward to carry, easy to lose, unhappily breakable, not particularly ergonomic to employ, potentially unsafe, and socially challenging too. Accordingly, it would be really nice to see some objective improvement in addressing each of these truly-longstanding categorical issues—especially while at least keeping an equivalent zone of protection against rain or sun (or from spontaneously interacting playmates).

Now, while there is certainly some shift of engineering considerations between these easily portable personal size umbrellas and larger attached-to-ground size umbrellas (such as beach umbrellas and picnic-table umbrellas), these considerations are apparently well within the conceptual reach of the ordinary person of the art. Simply stated, like the portable personal size umbrellas (described above), modern larger-than-personal size umbrellas are complex to make, awkward to adjust, unhappily breakable, and not particularly ergonomic to employ (nor anchor, stabilize, or orient).

Thus, in light of the large range of umbrella sizes, it makes sense to characterize umbrellas into a few categories: two of which are hand-held umbrellas (mobile—hereinafter “personal-size”) and structurally secured umbrellas (stationary, or securely attached to mobile platforms; be these trucks, boats, or even elephants). This distinctions is essentially ergonomic, in that a person of ordinary musculature would find a too large umbrella to be impractical to hold while walking; sometimes because of weight (which can be overcome by using ever more modern light-weight tensile materials) and almost always because of imbalance in the presence of even minor gusts of wind.

Accordingly, manufacturers seem to have settled on a largest hand-held umbrella size at 60.0 inch (152.4 cm) diameter—rim-to-rim when opened into full arched canopy; and this size is commercially called a “golf umbrella”. Nevertheless, ergonomically a largest hand-held (rim-to-rim) umbrella size diameter would seem to be from about 56.7 inches (144.0 cm) to about 72.0 inches (182.9 cm); not just in consideration of a user's body balance, but also in consideration of practical length for the respective umbrella shaft plus handle. Thus, in the context of the present understanding, a mobile hand-held umbrella opens to not more than about 60.0 inches (152.4 cm) diameter and an umbrella used as a stabilized structure (such as a beach umbrella or a picnic-table umbrella) opens to more than about 60.0 inches (152.4 cm) diameter. In light of this range of sizes, please NOTE: the ordinary person-of-the-art should appreciate that “about 60.0 inches (152.4 cm)” hereinafter (relating to embodiments of the present invention) means “from about 56.7 inches (144.0 cm) to about 72.0 inches (182.9 cm)”.

SUMMARY DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

Configured without umbrella-typical eye-and-face endangering protrusions, “personal-size” instantly-facile light-weight “Overarching Membrane Garment” (hereinafter “OMG”) apparatus embodiments respectively include an arch-capable tensile supported membrane and an attached quasi-equatorial membrane. The quasi-equatorial membrane structure is capable of resting on a person's shoulders, when the attached-thereto arching tensile-supported membrane structure is over the person's head and is extending further outward (to also be over portions of the person's vertical torso).

For use, a preferred version of these OMG apparatus embodiments unfolds from a metastable-flat storage configuration to an extended tensile-arched configuration, and user passes his/her head through quasi-equatorial membrane's opening; thereby covering user by overarching membrane structure. In this context, “quasi-equatorial” substantially relates to an imaginary geometric plane which divides the tensile supported membrane into two “more-or-less” equal surface areas (each respectively from about 35% to about 65% of the total surface), wherein one of these surface areas is continuous and arches over the user's head, and the other of these surface areas (which may comprise one or more continuous areas) covers, shields, and/or protects parts of the torso and/or the arms which are below the neck level of the user (when the user is standing).

Of course a plane is defined by three points, so this quasi-equatorial plane could be defined by any three of the attachments. Essentially, then, the quasi-equatorial plane intersects the arching tensile-supported structure, whereat are located any three of the attachments between the structure (resting on the user's shoulders) and the arching structure. Nevertheless, according to one group of OMG variation embodiments, the quasi-equatorial plane is virtual; in that the quasi-equatorial membrane comprises two tube-like sleeve sections (which are each attached to the arching structure—albeit not necessarily connected to each-other), and a user may pass respective forearms or biceps through the tube-like sleeve sections. Of course these two tube-like sections may respectively be as long-and-narrow as backpack straps or as broad-and-constrained as sphygmomanometer cuffs; and the two tube-like sections may even be joined by a behind-the-back strap and/or an in-front-of-the-chest strap.

Furthermore, as will be appreciated in the context of embodiments of the present invention, “arch”, “arching” and “overarching” interchangeably relate to a shape that is more reminiscent of a vertical slice of a dome (or of the upper side of a horizontal-axis cylinder, or of an elongated downward-focusing parabolic surface, etc.) than to an often-symmetric polar-coordinate umbrella-type hemisphere.

Virtually all of the aforesaid categorical umbrella-typical (and parasol-typical) issues are significantly addressed by various exemplary OMG apparatus embodiments of the present invention; more particularly, those which specifically relate to maintaining an equivalent zone of protection from the proximate environment, such as from rain or from bright sunlight; for a stationary or mobile person. The preferred exemplary instant OMG embodiments are substantially used as mobile umbrella substitutes; having a size (during use) of—from about 22 inch (56 cm) diameter (for a little kid)—to about 60 inch (152 cm) diameter (for a big adult, and/or for multiple persons simultaneously—such as parent carrying child)—and this (intentionally) is both the extended/open diameter size/range of today's ordinary personal (“golf”) umbrellas, and the extended/open diameter size/range of exemplary OMG personal-size embodiments. (Note: for OMG embodiments, “diameter” for a circular canopy means “major axis” for an elliptical canopy; the “canopy” being the “first membrane” or the “first tensile membrane” in the description of OMG embodiments hereinafter.) In addition, various larger than personal sized and smaller than personal sized OMG embodiments will also be described; which have uses that are not particularly associated with umbrellas, nor with parasols.

For a simple understanding of an exemplary OMG apparatus according to the present invention, the reader should reasonably recognize two common consumer devices that each respectively partially-resemble some embodiments of the instant invention—because these embodiments respectively employ at least one twisted/folded loop or buckle/folded loop. The first of these devices is a vehicle window sunshade, which is a tensile hoop with a continuously attached almost-tensile membrane; wherein the sunshade stores as a folded metastable flat article (disk shaped item) and opens to a stable flat article (large diameter loop). The second of these devices is a pop-open tent which has a tensile hoop that opens to an arch shape, a first tensile membrane evenly attached to the hoop to form all or part of an overarching membrane, and (very often) a second tensile membrane that is attached to form “a ground-covering floor-like tent-member” of the arched hoop. Also, kindly NOTE that the terms “hoop”, “loop”, and “ring” are used substantially synonymously herein; and that this observation will also help the reader to align similar or common elements described in the prior art.

Now, the present invention generally relates to embodiments of an OMG, which is a facile pseudo-umbrella-parasol function-emulating apparatus. An exemplary OMG embodiment is comprising a tensile hoop, a first membrane, and a second membrane; where (a) the first membrane is of sufficient size to cover a standing person's head and vertical torso, and (b) the second membrane has an opening of sufficient size to allow the person's head to easily pass there-through. As attached together (described immediately in the next paragraphs), these OMG embodiments are preferably allowing the second membrane to sit on the person's shoulders; and therewith allow an even distribution (a) of the weight of the tensile hoop and/or (b) of typical wind induced often-asymmetric stress on the tensile hoop supported first membrane.

More specifically, the preferred embodiment of the present invention relates to an OMG apparatus, which includes:

(A) a tensile hoop which is capable of having (a) a metastable folded flat state, (b) an open arching state, (c) a rapid pop-open transition from the metastable flat state to the arching state, and (d) an easy-to-fold transition from the arching state to the metastable flat state;

(B) a first membrane (a) which is substantially shaped like a surface defined by the hoop in the arching state, (b) which is substantially evenly holding many locations along the hoop, and (c) which is capable of accepting respective predetermined tension between most pairs of these (holding) locations when the hoop (i) is in each of the states and (ii) during each of the transitions;

(C) a second membrane (a) which is substantially connected to the hoop at about four locations on the hoop (or to respective first membrane locations there-between), wherein these about four locations define a quasi-equatorial plane of the hoop when said hoop is in the arching state, (b) which is capable of restraining the hoop to about the arching state (substantially to the degree that the arching state requires restraint thereabout—when in use), and (c) which has an opening that is centrally located substantially between the about four locations (and the second membrane is preferably capable of accepting respective predetermined tension at the connections to the hoop and also between the connected-to-the-hoop locations—when the hoop (i) is in each of the states and (ii) during each of the transitions); and

(D) wherein, in the hoop's arching state, (a) the first membrane is of sufficient size to cover a standing person's head and torso, and (b) the second membrane's opening is of sufficient size to allow the person's head to easily pass therethrough (preferably—thereby allowing the second membrane to rest evenly on the person's shoulders).

Firstly, regarding the preferred embodiment, the OMG tensile hoop is capable of having (a) a metastable folded flat state, (b) an open arching state, (c) a rapid pop-open transition from the metastable flat state to the arching state, and (d) an easy-to-fold transition from the arching state to the metastable flat state. There are two well known tensile hoops which each respectively accomplishes these states and respective transitions. One of these well known tensile hoops is a buckle-folding over-curvature loop, which most often is a continuous typically flat-profile band loop; and is today commonly used as a structural frame member of pop-up tents' roof-wall membranes. The other of these well known tensile hoops is a twist-folding loop (most often found in the earlier cited prior art), which is a continuous typically round-profile band loop, and was (until replaced by the lower costing over-curvature loop) commonly used as a structural frame member for pop-open sun-shade membranes; which are employed inside of the vehicle—to shade light coming in through a car window (or windshield) and/or to provide some measure of visual privacy.

Secondly, regarding the preferred embodiment, the OMG first membrane (a) is substantially shaped like a surface defined by the hoop in the arching state, (b) is substantially evenly holding many locations along the hoop, and (c) is capable of accepting respective predetermined tension between most pairs of these (hoop holding) locations when the hoop is (i) in each of the states and (ii) during each of the transitions. The “holding” between the hoop and the first membrane is accomplished by attaching the hoop and first membrane together; such as by ultrasonic welding, epoxy bonding, or the like. Alternately, the “holding” between the hoop and the first membrane is accomplished by sewing a hem (or basting) around the perimeter of the first membrane; so that the hoop is within the hem (or basting). Other way to accomplish the “holding” between the hoop and the first membrane is to staple the membrane to the hoop; or to staple the first membrane to itself, at each location where part of the first membrane perimeter has been warped around the hoop; or the like.

The first membrane may be of any of various substantially lightweight materials; such as those that are well known for use as the membranes of umbrellas or tents (for example: woven materials like fabrics, extruded materials like films, die cut materials like mesh netting, or the like), or of sun-shades, and the like (as will be described, both in greater detail and in consideration of numerous variations, hereinafter). It should be noted that the material of the first membrane should reasonably comply with the easy-to-fold transition and with the pop-open transition of the tensile hoop.

In some OMG embodiments, sagging of the first membrane may occur in an area substantially spanning at about the apex of the arched state hoop (region of sagging indicated in FIG. 3 by dotted lines “320”); and there are various ways to reduce this sagging. For example, slightly reducing the first membrane material between the arched state hoop apex locations will firstly increase tension of the hoop at the apex, and secondly will distribute that increased tension along the first membrane therebetween; thereby reducing the sagging. Equivalently, user may be provided with snap button pairs at predetermined locations; allowing user to reduce sagging between the pairs.

Thirdly, regarding the preferred embodiment, the OMG second membrane is substantially connected to the hoop at about four (typically mutually distant) locations on the hoop (as described shortly hereafter), wherein these locations define a quasi-equatorial plane of the hoop when said hoop is in the arching state. The “quasi-equatorial plane” divides the arched hoop into an upper region, that has a volume sufficient to enclose two opposite sides of the person's head (that is the crown of the head and either the two ear sides, or the face and occipital sides), while preferably leaving some space between the top of the head and the second membrane; and a lower region, that forms a shell above and generally about one-or-two sides of the person's vertical upper torso. According to some OMG embodiments, this “lower” shell covers the person's shoulders and forearms (while the upper shell may also cover the upper back, and upper chest). According to other OMG embodiments (such as may be desirable for a person riding a bicycle), this lower shell covers the person's shoulders, upper back and lower back.

Furthermore, it is preferable that the second membrane is substantially capable of restraining the hoop to about the arching state—albeit some embodiments (including many of the buckle-folding over-curvature hoop embodiments) are virtually restrained by the shape of the first membrane alone, and/or in conjunction with the “holding” between the hoop and the first membrane.

As mentioned above, the second membrane has an opening that is centrally located substantially between the about four locations. For some exemplary OMG embodiment, these “locations on the hoop” are substantially symmetrically distributed with respect to the opening in a radial manner; so that (in use) there is one location in front of each shoulder and one location behind each shoulder. For other exemplary OMG embodiments, (in use) there is a location substantially in front of each shoulder and a location (or two) substantially behind the spine or nape; or mirror opposite, there is a location substantially behind of each shoulder and a location (or two) substantially in front of the chin.

In all cases, it is a preferred purpose of the second membrane to allow the (arched-state) OMG apparatus of the present invention to easily balance on the person, in a hands-free manner; at least during windless moments. Simply stated, in the hoop's arching state, (a) the first membrane should be of sufficient size to cover a standing person's head and (upper) torso, and (b) the second membrane's opening should be of sufficient size to allow the person's head to easily pass therethrough (preferably—thereby allowing the second membrane to rest/balance hands-free on the person's shoulders). Nevertheless, since an object of the OMG is to allow more convenient negotiation of windy conditions than is experienced by an umbrella user or a parasol user, various optional belts and/or straps are available for OMG embodiments; wherein these belts and/or straps may be elastic or may include an elastic portion.

According to one OMG embodiment, a hand-hold continuous-belt is substantially attached to the hoop; wherein such continuous-belts are commonly found “over head” on urban transit vehicles for use by standing riders. This hand-hold allows the user an easy grip; to help stabilize the OMG during windy passages. This hand-hold is preferably arranged for poloidal-like inversion over (or tightly slipping around) the metastable flat state folded hoop; thereby keeping the hoop in the metastable folded state (by keeping the hoop from popping open, out of the metastable folded state)—particularly because the metastable flat state is both compact for transport and convenient for storage. (Note: A poloidal inversion is much like the way many people roll back or invert part of a pair of socks to form a pocket (or pouch) to hold them together.) Of course, the person of the art will easily recognize that various other types of straps or belts or may be used to keep an OMG in the folded state; nevertheless, some fashion conscious users may prefer a separate (typically unconnected) storage pouch, or to use an already existing pocket of their purse or briefcase to hold-and-store their folded OMG.

According to another OMG embodiment, at least one (end of a) suspender-like strap is respectively substantially attached to the hoop; and, as measured when the person's head is passed through the opening, the strap is long enough (a) to attach to the person's clothing (e.g. collar-band or waist-band), or (b) to pass (back-pack harness-like) under the person's armpit (axilla) and to attach (the other end of the strap) to the second membrane (or to already be attached thereto). Alternately, the opening of the second membrane may include at least one suspender-like strap (one end of which is attached thereat), or the like. By another variation embodiment, the opening of the second membrane may be further enlarged (such as with a collar button or a zipper or by having an elastic collar circumscribing the opening) even to allow the second membrane opening to rest around the person's shoulders; likewise preferably allowing at least one suspender-like strap (attached thereat), or the like. According to yet another variation embodiment, the second membrane opening is large enough to allow the person's shoulders to pass through, and includes a plurality of straps and/or clips to secure the quasi-equatorial plane (and/or the second membrane) to the person's waist belt; thus the second membrane may alternatively comprise a plurality of straps which are configured to perform as a quasi-equatorial plane.

Alternately described, the present invention generally also relates to ordinary OMG embodiments, each of which is a typically-personal instantly-facile light-weight apparatus. Basically, such a personal size OMG embodiment includes (A) a pop-open foldable tensile hoop capable of having a substantially-planar folded state and a substantially-unfolded arching state; (B) connected with a predetermined tension to the hoop's perimeter, a first tensile membrane; (C) connected at about four substantially diametrically opposed locations on the hoop's perimeter, wherein these locations define a substantially equatorial plane (NOT “a floor-like tent-member”) of the tensile hoop when said hoop is in the arching state, a second tensile membrane which has a substantially central opening therethrough and said opening is firstly large enough to allow a person's head to easily pass therethrough and secondly is small enough and central enough to allow a balance of second membrane surface on (or closely about) the person's shoulders; and (C) the substantially arching state occurs when the unfolded tensile hoop is restricted from opening to a full planar orientation according to a restriction selected from the (case) list: (i) the first membrane has at least one edge-to-opposite-edge length which is smaller than the hoop's “full-diameter” during planar orientation, (ii) at least one second tensile membrane distance between any two of the about four locations is smaller than the equivalent “full-diameter”, and (iii) a combination of these restrictions. Preferably the diametrically opposed locations are symmetrically arranged; however various fashionable and/or functional substantially asymmetric variations are also viable.

Now, substantially returning (from the alternate description) to the preferred OMG embodiments, preferably the tensile hoop is an over-curvature ring (which is typically a metal ribbon of substantially flat profile) that is connected end-to-end (as is currently commonly used in pop-open sun-shades for car windows); alternatively, the tensile hoop is a twist-folding ring (which is typically a spring-metal wire, or a fiberglass cord, or a sturdy nylon filament, or a cable made from strands thereof).

Preferably the tensile hoop with first membrane connection is by the hoop running through a peripheral (circumscribing) seam of the membrane (such as are typically found on skirts or robes that have been nominally shortened by sewing); alternatively, the membrane may be appropriately glued and/or sufficiently ultrasound-welded to the hoop.

Exemplary, first membrane material is selected to provide environmental protection (such as from rain or sun) to a person wearing an OMG; and the material may be umbrella fabric, plastic film, silk fabric, cotton fabric, flax fabric, nylon fabric, or the like—which allow robust folding between folded/planar and arching hoop states. For additional structural support, the first membrane material (and likewise the second membrane material) may include reinforcement fibers and/or elastic fibers.

Regarding sagging of the first membrane spanning at about the apex of the arched state hoop (region of sagging indicated in FIG. 3 by dotted lines “320”), according to an exemplary OMG embodiment, reinforcement is accomplished using fibers of higher resilience (bending recovery for filaments) than that of the first membrane material; which are sewn (at the apex) into the first membrane material thereat. With the higher resilience fibers, sewn using a zigzag stitch, between opposite locations of the hoop (corresponding to a minor axis of the first membrane ellipse shape), a mutual-pushing across the apex (two dimensional spring force) will contribute to reducing the sag; without overly impeding easy folding of the OMG.

Likewise, regarding reduction of sagging of the first membrane spanning at about the apex of the arched state hoop (region of sagging indicated in FIG. 3 by dotted lines “320”), according to another exemplary OMG embodiment, a secondary hoop (such as a twist folding loop having equal or lower resilience than the OMG tensile hoop) may be included (such as by gluing or by sewing) into the first membrane; and the major axis of the secondary hoop (being held to elliptical or being circular) aligns with the minor axis of the minor axis of the OMG tensile hoop.

Independently, preferably there are predetermined sections of the first membrane material that allow a person wearing an OMG to peripherally view any proximate moving vehicles; such as by including predetermined slits, or mesh portions, or windows of transparent film.

In use, the planar state OMG (flat storage disk) is allowed to pop-open (and/or to unfold, and untwist and/or unbuckle) to extended/arched/restricted configuration, and a user passes his/her head through the second membrane's opening; thereby covering the user's head by the above-equatorial first membrane portion and covering the user's body (as described above) by the below-equatorial first membrane portion. Preferably, the above-equatorial enclosed volume is sufficient so as not to rest the first membrane hat-like directly on the user's head (but forms an arched canopy there-above); thereby even allowing the OMG user to wear a hat or to keep their hair style in a respectively desired condition. For some variation embodiments, portions of the second membrane may extend to or beyond the coverage provided by the arching first membrane, thereby allowing portions of the second membrane to provide front torso and/or back torso coverage (protection); accordingly, such protective portions may be made from materials like those of the first membrane.

As a rain-shelter, the first membrane is preferably predominantly waterproof or water-resistant (or otherwise substantially having an in-use sky-facing hydrophobic surface); and as a sun-shade (parasol), the upper (above-equatorial section) first membrane is preferably externally (heat) reflective and the lower (below-equatorial section) first membrane is preferably white (heat—low absorbing). Alternately, for cold environments, both membrane portions are externally (heat absorbing) black and/or internally (heat) reflective; to return body heat back onto the user's body. Those versed in the art will instantly appreciate that anodized aluminum “space blankets”, similar infrared reflective foils, metalized films or fabrics (such as of “PET” polyethylene terephthalate, “PP” polypropylene, nylon, polyethylene, or the like), meshes, dichroic filtering membrane(s)—such as respectively IR & UV filtering, and intra-membrane dispersions—which are twist-folding and/or buckle-folding capable for use as membranes—are appropriate for respective OMG embodiments (described herein).

For improved pedestrian safety, at night and during rain (or fog), hoop seam/perimeter (and/or at least one second membrane edge-or-portion) includes trim (or basting) which is preferably bright florescent colored, light reflective (retro-reflective), or the like; providing enhanced visibility to drivers of spontaneously ambient vehicles. Of course, for the beauty and fashion conscious user, either or both membranes may be transparent (or tinted or opaque or embossed or “watermarked” or the like), or include like transparent-type sections, or include bright florescent colored or light reflective portions.

Thus, in general, OMG personal-size instantly-facile light-weight apparatus embodiments are configured without umbrella-typical eye-and-face injuring protrusions. These OMG apparatus embodiments respectively include a quasi-equatorial membrane structure capable of resting on (or about) a person's shoulders when an attached-thereto arching tensile-supported membrane structure is over the standing person's head and torso. For use, preferred OMG apparatus embodiments unfold from a metastable-flat storage configuration to an extended tensile-arched configuration, and the user passes his/her head (or head-and-shoulders) through the quasi-equatorial membrane's opening; thereby covering his/her head and upper torso by the overarching membrane structure. Material for overarching membrane may be for rain-shelter, sun-shade, UV-filter, and/or according to heat reflection, absorption, and insulation characteristics. Furthermore, for improved pedestrian safety, OMG apparatus trim is preferably light reflecting or florescent colored; thus providing proximate motor-vehicle drivers with contrast enhanced visibility of apparatus wearing children, pedestrians, road workers, traffic officers, and bicycle riders.

Now, briefly, turning to larger than personal size embodiments, OMG may be employed as a picnic-table covering—with the second (tensile) membrane serving as the table-top's cloth or surface pad (being attached and/or tied to said table—and central opening being enlarged to serve as a table perimeter tablecloth-to-table holder); and the first (tensile) membrane serving as a tent over heads (and upper body portions) of those sitting at the table. Likewise, according to other larger than personal size embodiments, OMG may be employed as a car or van or pickup-truck or row-boat cover—with the second membrane serving as the vehicle's “skirt or surface-contact covering (being attached to the respective car roof, van roof, pickup-truck's cargo-bed, or to the row boat's breast-hook, gun-wale, quarter-knee, stern-thwart, and/or the like); and the first membrane serving as a tent over (top and two sides of) the respective car, van, pickup truck, or boat (or even as a wind directing “para-foil” for the boat). Preferably, for an exemplary OMG facilitated boat, (when the OMG is in the arched state) the center most portion of the first tensile membrane is configured to act as an aerodynamic lifting surface and/or the lowermost portions of the tensile hoop are configured to act as hydrodynamic lifting surfaces and/or semi-flexible anti-heeling trim-tabs (like a catamaran or like a fish's pelvic fins) when in the water (and/or the lowermost portions may also include flotation assistance portions).

In the context of larger than personal size embodiments, there is a pseudo-personal size OMG embodiment that is useful for sports and/or for personal entertainment, wherein an oversized OMG first membrane provides aerodynamic lift; such as might be appreciated by persons skiing, water skiing, skating, snowboarding, skateboarding, or the like. The preferred pseudo-personal size OMG embodiment employs an inflatable first membrane, such as may be found in para-foils, para-gliders, and the like; and may further include an additional membrane section which is connected to a longitudinal side of the arched hoop on one side and is attachable to the ankles of the user on the other side. Of course, when used as (or when including) an aerodynamic lifting surface, OMG second membrane should be secured to the user (such as by vest or harness); rather than simply being balanced thereon.

Furthermore, without substantially changing the topology nor the engineering of the personal size OMG, various smaller than personal size embodiments are to be appreciated by the respective person of the art—such as for the second membrane holding ear-bud micro-speaker substantially outside of the ear while the (furthest from arch crest) tensile member (hoop) portions expand comfortable within the external ear canal—thereby allowing the user to both hear the sounds from the micro-speaker and to hear ambient sounds. Likewise, various intra-body canal OMG embodiment applications are appreciated—such as substantially for use as temporary biological-barriers and/or as stent-like substitutes. These embodiments (hoop) size from about 5 inches (13 cm) diameter to about 0.2 inches (0.5 cm) diameter, and may be used in a variety of applications; such as in dental surgery as a rubber dam, for contraception (or selective proactive conception) as a (preferably disposable) vaginal diaphragm device, for hemorrhage management as a vascular device, as an earplug or selective frequency noise filter for the ear, and the like.

Turning to the two priority applications, which have each been incorporated herein by reference, with regard to apparel (such as for rain or sun) the earlier application “Uh uSAn Aperella” (hereinafter uSAn1) is somewhat an over-engineered version of the later application “uSAn Aperella-Kali” (hereinafter uSAn2) wherein the quasi-equatorial plane “second membrane” of the uSAn2 embodiments substantially functionally replace the second “lower” hoop and attachments of the uSAn1 embodiments. A primary reason that uSAn1 has been incorporated herein by reference is because the uSAn1 application went into great detail to include a very large number of variations and other use embodiments that are substantially equally applicable to uSAn2 embodiments and to OMG embodiments. A non-limiting list of relevant uSAn1 details and relevant uSAn1 aspects includes attributes related to membrane restricting hoop shape (such as circular, oblong, elliptical, egg-shaped, or the like), acoustics (even for personal size embodiments), ELF (Extremely Low Frequency radiation—from about 3 Hz to about 3 kHz), EMF (Electro-Magnetic Fields), social networking, larger than person size application—like green roof or emergency shelter, smaller than person size application—like ear-bud or ear-plug, and the likes; and to a very large number of typically attached or integrated substantially-peripheral-use appurtenances therewith (such as sound related components, and/or illumination components); etc. Accordingly, for the sake of good order, both priority applications have been incorporated herein by reference in their entirety; and it should thereby be appreciated that aspects, features, applications, and variations described with respect to uSAn1 and/or to uSAn2 are, mutatis mutandis, (in most cases) applicable to OMG embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

In order to understand the invention and to see how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments including the preferred embodiment will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, a more complete understanding of the present invention and the advantages thereof may be acquired by referring to the following description in consideration of the accompanying drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 inclusively illustrates schematic views of a single buckle-folding loop in transition moments from a metastable folded flat state, to an open arching state, and continuing on to a unfolded flat state;

FIG. 2 inclusively illustrates schematic views of a single twist-folding loop in transition moments from a metastable folded flat state, to an open arch-capable state, and continuing on to a unfolded flat state (also arch capable);

FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic view of a buckle-folding hoop OMG with a quasi-equatorial plane second membrane;

FIG. 4 illustrates schematic and respective exploded views of a twist-folding hoop OMG in a figure “8” configuration;

FIG. 5 illustrates a schematic view of a pair of buckle-folding OMG hoops in a figure “8” configuration with a quasi-equatorial plane second membrane; and

FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic view of a pair of twist-folding OMG hoops in a figure “8” configuration with an asymmetric oriented second membrane.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

There are numerous exemplary geometries for the tensile hoop of OMG embodiments; the choice of which will in turn determine the preferred shape of the first membrane. For the sake of good order, it should be noted that a twist-folding hoop is often substantially functionally equivalent to an over-curvature hoop and to other similar tensegrity-type components; even though those may be amenable to alternate procedures for folding, from an extended-diameter “arching” state to a reduced-diameter “folded” metastable flat state.

FIG. 1 inclusively illustrates schematic views of a single buckle-folding loop in transition moments from a metastable folded flat state (105), through various popping-open states (110, 115), to an open (metastable) arching state (120), and continuing on through a further (metastable arching) opening state (125) to an unfolded flat state (130).

Regarding FIG. 1, firstly, it is important to note that unfolded flat state (130) has a circumference (and diameter) which are substantially three times that of the storage circumference (and the respective storage diameter) of the metastable folded flat state (105). Secondly, it is important to notice that, for open arching state hoop (120), a proper second membrane would be substantially elliptical with a circumference (perimeter) equal to that of the unfolded flat state (130). Furthermore, the preferred arching state (120) is substantially about half way between the metastable folded flat state (105) and a stable no-fold flat state (130) of the hoop.

FIG. 2 inclusively illustrates schematic views of a single twist-folding loop in transition moments from a metastable folded flat state (205), to a single half-twist figure “8” configuration (210), to an open arching-capable state (215) albeit the arch of this hoop is not shown here (in that it requires the first membrane to hold it in an arching state and/or the quasi-equatorial second membrane to hold it in an arching state), and continuing on to a unfolded flat state (220) which is also capable of a less-preferred arching configuration in conjunction with the quasi-equatorial second membrane (much as tension straps of “uSAn1” arch such a hoop-membrane object).

Regarding FIG. 2, firstly, it important to note that unfolded flat state (220) has a circumference (and diameter) which are substantially two times that of the storage circumference (and the respective storage diameter) of the metastable folded flat state (205). Secondly, it should be noted that high quality hoops are further capable of being twisted folded again from the metastable folded flat state (205) to a more compact flat state that would exhibit half of the circumference (and respective diameter) of the metastable folded flat state (205)—albeit storing with about twice the respective thickness. Thirdly, it is important to note that, for arching state (215), first membrane (having perimeter substantially equal to perimeter of the unfolded flat state hoop) may be elliptical, oblong, egg shaped, or the like; and this restricting first membrane area (typically in conjunction with the restraining dimensions of the second membrane) hold the OMG in a predetermined arched configuration. Thus, the arching state (215) is substantially about half way between the metastable folded flat state (205) and a stable no-fold flat state (220) of the hoop. Nevertheless, according to another OMG embodiment, the unfolded flat state (220) may be held in an acceptable overarching state by an attached thereto quasi-equatorial second membrane (as is understood from the hoop arching “process” presented in the earlier priority “Uh uSAn Aperella” application).

FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic view of an OMG having a buckle-folding (over-curvature loop) tensile hoop (305) in an arched state with a quasi-equatorial plane second membrane (310) having an opening (315) for the user's head. The substantially elliptical first membrane of the hoop is not shown here; however “Front” (no membrane—open side) and “Back” (no membrane—open side) are indicated; so one can easily understand that the first membrane would be covering the head, and the left and right sides of the torso—leaving free line of sight (in the Front direction), and exposure to wind on the nape of the user's neck (in the Back direction). One way to increase the field of vision in the front direction is to alter the shape of the quasi-equatorial plane second membrane from the square shape (shown) to a (preferably isosceles) trapezoid shape (not shown) that would cause a some-what wider Front and a somewhat narrower Back—which, in turn, may call for similar asymmetric accommodation to the shape of the respective first membrane.

Turning to other OMG embodiments, another twist-folding arching state can be better understood in conjunction with FIG. 4; where schematic and respective exploded views of a twist-folding hoop OMG in a figure “8” configuration are shown (each substantially equivalent to 210 of FIG. 2). This OMG (which somewhat resembles a familiar twist-folding tent) is firstly held to only open to a half twist of the hoop (405, 410) by respective front and back triangular upper-apex proximate fabric “membranes”(420), and is distinctively OMG characterized by having a central quasi-equatorial planar second membrane (415) (which could likewise be a plurality of straps or a harness or equivalent type) member (with an opening for the user's head or head-and-shoulders). In this context, it is also noted that an opening for the user's head (or head-and-shoulders) may be round, oval, ellipse, oblong, square, rectangle, polygon, or otherwise; as may be embodied to allow (preferably easy) passage of the head (or head-and-shoulders) there-through. Of course it is not necessary for the height of this OMG to be about the same height as the user (as would be the case in a modified full-person-height personal tent example); since it is adequate for the user's head to remain covered within the above quasi-equatorial portion of the first membrane, and for much of the user's torso to remain covered by the below attached second-membrane portion of the first membrane.

For equivalent illustrative purposes, an exploded OMG is shown wherein the half twisted (figure “8” shape) hoop (406, 411) with attached first membrane (not shown—and intended to be substantially figure “8” shaped rather than being a half twisted ellipse) has an attached quasi-equatorial second membrane with substantial head-size opening (416), and the half twist is held in place by a apex region constrictor (421) comprising two membrane triangles that are respectively attached at the apex and to opposite edges of each side of the half twisted hoop. According to another exemplary variation of this OMG, the apex region constrictor may include significant further portions of the first membrane; thereby even allowing Front side and Back side portions to come about quarter-way down to about the eye level (which is almost to about half the distance between the apex and the quasi-equatorial plane—as measured along the hoop).

It is also important to note that this OMG (FIG. 4) may be first folded together and then twist folded together, thereby arriving at a storage configuration that has one quarter the perimeter of the entire figure “8” hoop. According to another OMG embodiment, folding together the two quasi-circles of the figure “8” hoop is sufficient for flat storage. Furthermore, in order to facilitate an easy pop-open from flat storage, preferred versions of this embodiment include a spring-loaded (or equivalent tensile) portion in the constrictor and/or a spring-loaded (or equivalent tensile) portion in the quasi-equatorial membrane. In addition, likewise here, the second membrane may be a (preferably isosceles) trapezoid shape; for expanded field of peripheral vision of the user, etc.

Now, FIG. 5 illustrates a schematic view of a pair of buckle-folding OMG hoops (505, 510) in a figure “8” configuration with an equatorial plane second membrane (515) having a central opening (520) for the user's head to pass through; and further held together in an arching state (figure “8” shape) by a tensile constrictor (525). It is important to note that this OMG (transitioning to storage) may be firstly rotated about the apex, so that hoop (505) and hoop (510) align, and then the pair of hoops can be folded together (as if they were a single buckle-folding hoop); thereby resulting in a storage configuration having ⅙ the circumference of the combined hoops (circumference of hoop 505 “plus” circumference of hoop 510). However, preferably, the respective hoops (505, 510) are each buckle-folded toward the constrictor; and then held together in metastable flat-storage configuration by at least one continuous belt—which is preferably attached to one of the respective hoops, or to the constrictor.

Finally, turning to FIG. 6, an arched configuration pair of twist-folding OMG hoops (605, 610) is shown in a figure “8” configuration, with an asymmetric oriented second membrane (615) having a opening for user's head (620); and the two hoops (605, 610) are held together at a pseudo-half-twist apex by a connector (625). It is important to note that preferably the larger hoop (610) has a simple integer multiple circumference of the smaller hoop (605)—here the ratio being 2:1—so that this OMG can be stored either with circumference of hoop (605), or single twisted-and-folded thereafter to result in a flat storage configuration, with a circumference that is half of hoop (605). Preferably, the membrane of the smaller hoop is transparent or tinted (such as in the upper half to filter sunlight as sunglasses do, and/or even having an optical polarizing filter); allowing easy user field of vision; such as would be appropriate when this exemplary OMG is worn by a bicycle rider.

Turning to other variation embodiments, preferably for an ordinary personal-size (“mobile umbrella substitute”) OMG, the central opening includes a simple collar or circumscribing padding (or quilting), albeit one that is minimal enough to easily twist-fold with the membranes. Preferably, the circumference of the central opening includes tension reinforcing fibers to the membrane thereabout—so as to prevent the membrane about-the-opening from easily tearing, when there is any more-than-hoop-tension in said second membrane (such as when the head is passed through). Attachments and/or connections (such as: between a membrane and a hoop, or between a strap/belt and hoop or membrane) should be appropriately robust, and may be integral, sewn, basted, bonded, riveted, glued, ultrasonic welded, combinations thereof, or the like. Where structurally equivalent, attachments to the hoop may be through the hoop, wrapped around the hoop, or the like.

In use, a person would take out a metastable-folded flat-state personal OMG, snap it open from the smaller metastable circumference to the full circumference—as restricted by the membrane(s), and pass the person's head up through the opening (in the second membrane). At this point, the (standing) person's head is covered by the apex (central portion) of the first membrane (the first membrane also extends beyond the quasi-equatorial plane to cover portions of the person's below-neck torso), and the person's chest and/or shoulders is also partially covered by the second membrane; thereby providing “personal shelter” from rain, for an exemplary embodiment where the first membrane is waterproof or water resistant. For simplicity of understanding, for protection from rain, first membrane of an OMG may be selected from any of the same fabrics or films that are used for umbrellas; such as polyester, nylon, acrylic, clear plastic, silk, or the like. The first membrane may be woven or extruded materials, which may be coated and/or including reinforcement tensile (or elastic) fibers.

Accordingly, as a mobile shelter from rain, the (above second membrane portion of the) first membrane functions like a tent over the head of the person “wearing” it; and the first membrane may become dome-like when the person's head presses onto the middle-portion lower-surface (arch-apex) of the first membrane. In typical cases, rain will run off the first membrane; without the person needing to hold any supportive object (unlike the umbrella, where the person has to hold a supporting central rod). Nevertheless, like the umbrella, the user may occasionally have to hold the hoop while traversing the travails of strong and gusting winds. Alternately, like the umbrella, the user may selectively rotate the OMG, to direct one of the below quasi-equatorial portions of the first membrane toward oncoming wind; even if that then leaves the OMG at an oblique angle with respect to the user's frontward line-of-site.

Furthermore, as a mobile shelter from rain, the second membrane (quasi-equatorial) may become (elongated) dome-like when the person's shoulders presses onto the middle-portions (lower-surface) of the second membrane; on either side of the opening through which the person's head has past.

According to further embodiments of an OMG, the hoop is made of a spring-like material selected from the list: metal, plastic, glass-fiber, carbon-fiber, spring-steel, composite, and the like. While there are many ways to fabricate and configure materials into a twist-folding or a twist-buckling loop, for the sake of best practices safety, preferred OMG embodiments use a hoop that is topologically arranged (formed into a continuous ring) to substantially equalize the probability of breakage among all portions (segments) of the hoop.

One of the objectives of best practices safety here is to mitigate accidental instances where the hoop breaks and where such breakage may cause cut or puncture wound to the person using the OMG or to some proximate person; both of which are typical of the accidents occurring from a sharp exposed tip of open umbrella rib, and less frequently from the distal end of the umbrella's central supporting rod. This is an OMG design preference of best practices safety because, every apparatus eventually breaks, and therefore it would seem preferable for an OMG membrane or strap to break before the OMG hoop breaks; this appearing to be the better ergonomic choice for apparatus obsolescence. Accordingly, the preferred personal size OMG embodiments strive to configure the hoop to be the respectively most durable component.

Furthermore, substantially as the manufacturer of one “pop-up” consumer product cautions, likewise personal size OMG embodiments should include a notice to the effect of: “WARNING! This product has an internal spring frame hoop that will ‘pop’ open with some force. NEVER let small children unfold or fold this product. DO NOT continue to use this product if any part of the hoop frame becomes either bent or broken. DO NOT open this product in a confined space, as it is designed to open to its full size in seconds. Always make sure that there is ample space in the area you have chosen to open up the product, and you must hold it away from your body when unfolding.” Of course, while the (regular and the spring loaded) umbrella is such a familiar consumer product, similar warnings are rarely posted; even though they should be. It is hoped that the best enabling modes of OMG embodiments will at least provide better consumer safety than spring-loaded umbrellas do; and, more importantly, will appeal more to the consumer's innate sense of intuitive best-practices for safety. Similarly, for most personal size OMG embodiments, a further accompanying large-type-font cautionary notice may state: “WARNING: To avoid danger of suffocation, keep this OMG away from babies and small children. Do not use an OMG in cribs, beds, carriages or play pens. This OMG is not a toy.”

Moving on, according to yet other variation embodiments, an OMG apparatus has at least one conveniently located pedestrian-safety related visual component attached thereto (or integral thereto). This “visualization” component may be a passive light reflector (such as for reflecting light from street, vehicular, and/or automobile lamps), an active illumination element (such as a flash light, a glow lamp, a flashing multi-LED strand, or the like), a passive vehicle-radar reflector (probably advisable in the approaching age of autonomous driving vehicles), and/or an active location-update (GPS) broadcast element (which provides virtual visualization guidance to shared mapping systems—such as may likewise be used by proximate autonomous vehicles).

These visualization components are primarily to improve visibility of the OMG in-use; because some uses are during inclement weather (when drivers are less likely to notice every traversing pedestrian) and other uses are taking the attention of the user from his/her path (making it potentially likely that he/she is distracted from negotiating ordinary pedestrian interactions). A common “other use” in today's world is that OMG allows the user to mobile-device text while walking, because the OMG user and user-device are dry under the OMG first membrane, and because the OMG is often used in hands-free mode (allowing a user to hold the mobile-device, and to text therewith).

Similarly, such accoutrements (such as the visualization components listed here, and the other kinds of components listed in the earlier priority application “Uh uSAn Aperella”—which include audio components, social networking components, health systems components, etc.) may also provide valuable service to residents of larger than personal size OMG embodiments (such as earlier priority application “Uh uSAn Aperella” described emergency shelter uSAn); and/or to persons providing services to such persons or residents.

According to yet different variation embodiments of an OMG apparatus, at least one of the membranes has at least one layer selected for having a predetermined desirable weather-related functional property; such as water proof, water resistant, water repellent, light colored, white, having a heat reflecting surface, thermal insulating, loosely woven, net-like, heat absorbing dark colored, black, or the like.

More specifically, there are four preferred seasonal stylized-weather combinations, respectively named for Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter; even though it is well known and completely appreciated that real world local-weather on the globe rarely abides by these stylized-weather portrayals.

The preferred “Spring” (stylized Rain Season) OMG embodiment has the first membrane that is waterproof or water resistant (or having a hydrophobic outward sky-facing surface).

The preferred “Summer” (stylized Hot Season) OMG embodiment has the first membrane with at least one sky-facing sun-reflecting material portion (such as of gold or silver colored space blanket material, or a substantially simultaneously near-or-partial infrared filtering and/or near-or-partial ultraviolet filtering and/or respective IR-and-UV filtering diachronic-membrane, or like membrane composite) and preferably has the second membrane of net-like breathable material, that does not induce accumulation of body heat or of extra perspiration thereat.

The preferred “Autumn” (stylized Transitional Season) OMG embodiment has the first membrane and the second membrane of respectively dual-layer highly-perforated (or loosely woven) net-like materials; which create an external Moiré pattern appearance for each of the membranes, and which provide partial shelter from sun and from wind.

The preferred “Winter” (stylized Cold Season) OMG embodiment has the first membrane with an atmosphere-facing black or dark color (to absorb heat from sun light) side, and a head-facing heat-reflecting material (such as gold-amber or silver colored space blanket material) side; and/or has the second membrane with a body-facing heat-reflecting material (such as gold-amber or silver colored space blanket material) side.

Each of these four stylized season OMG embodiments may further include a net-like or aerating body-facing layer (and/or head facing layer) to provide improved thermal insulation and/or improved humidity dispersal; as is appropriate for first membrane portions which may be transparent and would thus not fog from user's breath, and as is appropriate for second membrane portions which may otherwise accumulate user's body-heat generated moisture.

It should also be appreciated that there are various combinations of these four stylized season OMG embodiments which may be better suited for local conditions; such as for places with cold rainy weather, or for places with hot rainy weather, and so forth. Likewise, substantially conformal fitted appurtenance membranes, layers, liners, coverings, and structures may be provided, which enhance any of these “seasonal” properties; making such exemplary enhanced OMG embodiments multifunctional with respect to weather conditions. Furthermore, a membrane may be a dual layer structure, such as having a waterproof heat reflective (space blanket) side and a dark colored heat absorbing side; as could then be useful as a reversible membrane, for reflecting the hot sun of day (away from a user) while preserving the body heat (of the user) by night. An exemplary OMG intended for multi-season use, by virtue of including a reversible first membrane (space blanket), may allow the user to detach and to re-attach second membrane to the hoop, or the like.

Another personal-size OMG embodiment simply consists of (A) an arching tensile member supported first membrane structure that is capable of covering a person's head and standing torso; and attached thereto, (B) a quasi-equatorial second structure (preferably a second membrane, net, fabric, or combination of straps, and/or having at least one tensile or elastic portion) that is capable of resting on the person's shoulders (or thereabouts)—and thereby capable of supporting the person covering tensile member structure. Here too, the quasi-equatorial structure substantially divides the arching tensile member's first membrane coverage-of-the-person between an upper region including the person's head, and a lower region including the person's shoulders and/or some portion of the person's upper torso; much as a standard umbrella in use will be arranged to likewise provide canopy-membrane coverage for the person's head, shoulders, and upper torso (including biceps, close-to-body forearms, and umbrella-shaft-holding hand).

Of course the tensile member may be a hoop, even a twist-folding or buckle-folding hoop; however many substantially tensegrity supported “textile” (membrane, fabric, film, etc.) structures are capable of providing adequate functional equivalence. The preferred tensegrity supported structure OMG embodiment employs tensile hoops, rather than traditional bars or struts, to accomplish longstanding need for improved eye/face safety. Furthermore, some variations of this embodiment may have the arching member which is easily foldable from arching to a flat configuration and which is easily pop-open from the flat configuration to the arching; while other variations may have the arching member which is easily folded and unfolded in an accordion-like or origami-like fashion; and still other variations include at least one spring-like portion in the arching member—to help facilitate a pop-open capability.

Nevertheless, still other variations of this embodiment may not have either easily foldable configuration, or easily pop-open configuration, or both (such as a bow-chain tensegrity loop, a tensegrity-ring, or even a “pre-tensegrity” space-frame structure); nevertheless, these “other variations” may be useful articles of apparel for easy distribution—particularly either as a disposable (preferably biodegradable) article, or as a durable (potentially more robust) article. According to one interesting exemplary embodiment, not only is the OMG disposable, but it is intended as a use-once article; such as including treated paper membranes (appropriate surface sizing—which may even be instantly user laserjet printable).

Furthermore, particularly regarding variations and additions to these OMG embodiment “other variations”, mutatis mutandis; the person of the art will easily appreciate that aspects and variations heretofore described (and likewise other aspects derived from the priority applications) are likewise appropriate here.

It may thus be suggested that, on an instantly practical level, when worn as an umbrella/parasol function-substitute garment, the user of a properly manufactured personal-size OMG should never fall prey to another exasperating confloogle experience again; and this answers the most significant of the longstanding needs for inventive progress in this art. Furthermore, while providing equivalent coverage protection from rain/sun, compared to the problems of a modern umbrella (or parasol), most OMG embodiments are objectively expected to be significantly simpler make, easier carry (flat), harder to lose (often fitting into a briefcase, shopping-bag, or school-bag—when folded flat), less breakable, substantially more ergonomic to employ, potentially eye-and-face safer (even for children), and actually intuitively socially polite too.

Finally, (behold) the present invention has herein been described with a certain degree of particularity, however those versed in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and alterations may be carried out without departing from either the spirit or scope, as hereinafter claimed. 

1. Overarching Membrane Garment, a facile pseudo-umbrella-parasol function-emulating apparatus, comprising: (A) a tensile hoop which is capable of having (a) a metastable folded flat state, (b) an open arching state, (c) a rapid pop-open transition from the metastable flat state to the arching state, and (d) an easy-to-fold transition from the arching state to the metastable flat state; (B) a first membrane (a) which is substantially shaped like a surface defined by the hoop in the arching state, (b) which is substantially evenly holding many locations along the hoop, and (c) which is capable of accepting respective predetermined tension between most pairs of these locations when the hoop (i) is in each of the states and (ii) during each of the transitions; (C) a second membrane (a) which is substantially connected to the hoop at about four locations on the hoop, wherein these locations define a quasi-equatorial plane of the hoop when said hoop is in the arching state, (b) which is capable of restraining the hoop to about the arching state, and (c) which has an opening that is centrally located substantially between the about four locations; and (D) wherein, in the hoop's arching state, (a) the first membrane is of sufficient size to cover a standing person's head and torso, and (b) the second membrane's opening is of sufficient size to allow the person's head to easily pass therethrough.
 2. The Overarching Membrane Garment of claim 1, wherein the hoop's arching state is substantially about half way between the metastable folded flat state and a stable no-fold flat state of the hoop.
 3. The Overarching Membrane Garment of claim 1, wherein the tensile hoop is a buckle-folding over-curvature loop.
 4. The Overarching Membrane Garment of claim 1, wherein the tensile hoop is a twist-folding loop.
 5. The Overarching Membrane Garment of claim 4, wherein the loop is half-twisted into a figure “8” shape; and further including a constrictor holding the loop at the half-twist of the figure “8”.
 6. The Overarching Membrane Garment of claim 1, wherein the tensile hoop is a pair of tensile hoops that are held together in a figure “8” shape by a tensile constrictor.
 7. The Overarching Membrane Garment of claim 1, further comprising a hand-hold continuous-belt which is substantially attached to the hoop, and the belt is arranged for poloidal-like inversion over the metastable flat state folded hoop; thereby keeping the hoop in the metastable flat state.
 8. The Overarching Membrane Garment of claim 1, further comprising at least one suspender-like strap which is respectively substantially attached to the hoop; and, as measured when the person's head is passed through the opening, the strap is long enough (a) to attach to the person's clothing, or (b) to pass under the person's armpit and to attach to the second membrane.
 9. Overarching Membrane Garment including: (A) an arching tensile member supported first membrane structure that is capable of covering a person's head and standing torso; and attached thereto, (B) a quasi-equatorial second structure that is capable of resting on the person's shoulders.
 10. The Overarching Membrane Garment of claim 9, wherein the member is easily foldable from arching to a flat configuration, and is easily pop-open from the flat configuration to the arching. 